Sinusitis is an inflammation of the paranasal sinuses that causes impaired sinus mucociliary clearance. It
may be caused by either an upper respiratory tract infection (bacterial, viral or fungal) or allergies. Let's look at some natural remedies for sinusitis.
Common signs and symptoms of sinusitis include:
- Nasal obstruction, increased secretions, sneezing
- Itching of mucous membranes of nose, eyes, posterior pharynx, conjunctivae
- Sinus symptoms: headache, pressure behind the eyes, pain in the frontal area, tenderness over
cheekbones, or toothache - Ear infections
- Inflammation and oedema of nasal mucosa, purulent sinonasal secretion (yellow or green), or postnasal
drip - Cough or pharyngitis
- May be feverish
- Loss of smell
- General malaise
Key strategies revolve around reducing allergenic exposure:
- Avoid exposure to environmental tobacco smoke
- Reduce chemical, irritant and pollution exposure
- Avoid damp or mouldy housing conditions
- Reduce exposure to pets and animal dander
- Reduce exposure to dust mites and cockroaches – clean and vacuum regularly, wash bedclothes in very
hot water, use mattress covers. - Minimise dust-collecting household items (i.e., carpets, curtains).
- Regularly wash soft toys, cushions, etc.
- Use of an air purifier/dust filter may help
- Therapeutic massage is an excellent way to assist local lymphatic drainage.
- Contrast hydrotherapy. Alternating hot and cold applications brings nutrients to the site and diffuses
metabolic waste from inflammation. The overall effect is decreased inflammation, pain relief, and enhanced healing. Alternate three minutes hot with one minute cold. Repeat three times to complete one set. Do two
to three sets/day.
Herbal support and symptom relief of sinusitis:
- Acupuncture
- Antimicrobial Sinus Spray
- Direct nasal delivery of saline and essential oils helps to provide rapid anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial
relief, helping to reduce congestion and relieve the symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections and
allergies. - Zinc and vitamin C may reduce the risk of respiratory infections and help heal the nasal mucosal lining from any damage caused by the irritation or infection
- Elderflower benefits are said to have been used for some four thousand years. It has historically been used for: treatment of respiratory problems ie sinusitis, fortifying the immune system against common cold and flu, relieving allergies and anti inflammatory properties
- Garlic: supports immune system, antifungal, antibacterial used for the treatment of the common cold, sinusitis and hayfever
- Horseradish: For centuries, horseradish has been used for its medicinal benefits. Specifically, it can help increase facial circulation, help clear the sinus passages and help ease mucus out of the upper-respiratory passages.
- Fenugreek: help reduce inflammation and mucus production in nasal tissues.
- Steam Inhalation or Diffusers with essential oils added: Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Tea Tree
If you have persistent sinusitis, please get in touch with our Naturopath, Trish for an appointment. Book online here or give us a call on (07) 4152 2372.
Sinusitis can be a painful and annoying condition, but it is treatable, so try some of these natural remedies for sinusitis and see how you go.
